Budgeted for 10 new officers in 2017
The Apopka Police Department began its 2017 hiring campaign today with a goal of reaching a standard of three officers per 1,000 residents. Currently the department is at 2.36 per 1,000.
The first step? Hire 10 officers in 2017.
The Apopka City Council voted 5-0 back in December to accept a federal grant to hire five additional officers for the APD. The grant is being offered through the 2016 COPS Hiring Program (CHP). The estimated amount of Federal funds to be awarded over the three year grant period is $625,000; the local match to the City of Apopka will be $339,800 over the same period.
The APD was already scheduled to hire five additional officers in the 2016-17 budget, but the CHP grant is in addition to those new hires.
“We are excited to be able to continue to provide the level of service the community deserves,” said APD Chief Michael McKinley. “The department has been falling behind due to the growth within the city of Apopka. The five officers the council approved in this budget, along with the five additional officers we were able to get with the Federal grant, will allow us to continue to serve the community at a high level.”
Today, McKinley began the APD's hiring campaign with this flyer posted on his Facebook page:
If you are looking for a career in law enforcement, the Apopka Police Department currently has open positions for sworn police officers and is looking for qualified candidates. The Apopka Police Department offers excellent pay and benefits in the Central Florida area. Starting salary is $45,480.00 with great benefits and retirement. Interested candidates can pick up an application at the Police Department located at 112 E. 6th Street, Apopka, FL 32703 or contact Lieutenant Steve Brick at 407-703-1771.
